German Shepherd Dogs (GSDs) are wonderful animals and can make wonderful pets for the right person. They also have some characteristics that make them unsuitable for some potential dog owners. The following questions will help you determine if a German Shepherd Dog is the right dog for you.
Are you looking strictly for a guard dog?
While GSDs do make excellent watchdogs, this is the WRONG reason to own a dog! If you intend to keep your GSD chained in the yard with little human interaction, please do not own one. Dogs are social animals and require love and attention just as humans do. You will end up with a broken, miserable animal. All dogs deserve a better fate.
Are you looking for a companion or playmate for your children?
This alone is not a good reason to own a GSD or any dog. While GSDs can be great with children given proper training, do not expect to leave a GSD with small children unsupervised. GSDs are large, powerful dogs, and children under 12 have not yet developed the judgment necessary to treat animals respectfully. If you have small children, expect to watch all dog/child interactions very closely. It is also unfair to expect a small child to take on the responsibility of caring for a dog. Giving a GSD as a gift for a child is not ideal, as owning a dog requires a significant, long-term commitment. It may be a great learning experience for a child to HELP with caring for a dog, but the ultimate responsibility remains with YOU.
Are you looking for a loyal companion and beloved family member?
This may be the very best reason to own a GSD! Bringing a GSD into your heart and home can be a truly rewarding experience for your entire family.
Are you willing to make a long term commitment to a GSD?
This is an essential consideration before deciding to own ANY dog. GSDs have an average life expectancy of 10-12 years. Be prepared to honor a commitment to the dog for the remainder of its life. The unconditional love and devotion you will receive deserves nothing less.
Are you a strong leader?
DO NOT expect a GSD to respond to your commands if you are a weak leader. A strong minded dog can end up running your household if you do not use patient and fair discipline.
Are GSDs gentle with all living creatures?
GSDs have hunting, herding, and prey drive instincts. Squirrels, rabbits and cats fall into the category of "things to be hunted for fun" if not trained to the contrary.
Are you comfortable with a lot of dog hair?
Are you okay with dog hair—everywhere? German Shepherds shed heavily, especially in the summer. If you like a spotless home, think about whether you're willing to spend extra time vacuuming (a lot). They can shed even more than you might expect, so regular brushing and vacuuming are essential to keeping the fur manageable.
Does your housing situation make it viable to own a GSD?
Is your current housing situation stable enough for a GSD? Do you own your home? If not, does your landlord agree to allow a big dog such as a GSD share your living quarters? Do you have adequate space, including a completely fenced yard, if needed? What about your neighbors? Will they tolerate a large dog with a large bark? Each of our GSDs has different requirements and needs, which will be listed on their bio. Please refer to the dog's bio for specific information about the GSD you are interested in.
Do you anticipate a move in the coming years?
"We're moving" is a common reason dogs are dumped in shelters. If you are expecting a move, please give serious consideration to getting a dog, unless you are certain you will be able to take your dog with you.
Do you have the financial ability to care for a GSD? Average costs for annual exam and vaccinations $250/year
Estimated Annual Cost of Owning a GSD (without an emergency/unexpected illness) Over $3,000
Other factors to consider:
Do you have the time necessary to devote to a GSD?
Dogs are dependent creatures and rely totally upon you for their care and well-being. There are many elements necessary for your GSD to be a happy and healthy pet, all requiring YOUR time and effort.
General Care:
Much like any dog, GSDs require regular grooming including bathing, brushing (coat and teeth), administering monthly heartworm and flea preventative and annual trips to the vet.
Exercise:
GSDs need daily walks and interactive activities to prevent boredom and destructive behavior, like jumping fences and digging holes. Simply wandering around the backyard isn't enough exercise for them. They require both physical exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy.
Training:
Do not expect a GSD to learn how to properly behave in a home without training. GSD's are BIG dogs with high energy and prey drive. Training, along with proper socialization is absolutely essential to ensure a well behaved GSD.
Family Time:
It's important to take the time to make your GSD part of your family. Snuggle with him, include him on family outings, give him the attention he deserves.
Sure, it's a long list of questions. But a quick stroll through an animal shelter or rescue will help you understand why answering them before you adopt is so important.
Many of the rescue's homeless animals are puppies, victims of irresponsible people who allowed their pets to breed. But there are at least as many GSDs at the shelter who are more than a year old- who were obtained by people who didn't think through the responsibilities of pet ownership before they got the dog.
Please, don't make the same mistake. Think before you adopt. Sharing your life with a companion GSD can bring incredible rewards, but only if you're willing to make the necessary commitments of time, money, responsibility, and love-for the life of the pet.
If you're ready to adopt a companion for life, please click the links above at the top of the page to see our wonderful GSDs available for adoption at German Shepherd Rescue & Adoptions.
See our Adoption Process [ADD LINK HERE] page for more information about adopting your furever friend and begin the application process.
